Kent Equality Cohesion Council, in partnership with Cohesion Plus, and Dartford Borough Council, brought the communities of Gravesham and Dartford together for a joyful celebration of Saint George’s Day on April 23rd.

The annual festivities are a much-anticipated and beloved tradition in the local calendar, celebrating the patron saint of England as well as what it means to be British in modern day Britain.

In the lead-up to the day, some 1200 pupils participated in creative arts workshops led by Same Sky, producing Saint George-themed shields, dragons, and banners featuring messages of friendship, unity, and community. These artworks were proudly displayed during the parades, bringing colour and joy to the town centres.

Alongside the parade, crowds were treated to an elective and culturally diverse programme of entertainment, which was reflective of the diverse communities in the towns.

Speaking about the event, Gurvinder Sandher MBE DL, CEO of KECC and producer of the celebrations, said:

“St George’s Day is an opportunity to highlight all that brings us together and to celebrate who we are as a nation. The celebrations provide an opportunity to promote inclusion, welcoming all regardless of ethnicity, faith and background. We are stronger together than divided and it’s important to amplify this message especially amongst young people.”